Socket Geek

AMD A4-3330MX socket: Socket FS1

The AMD A4-3330MX uses the Socket FS1 socket. It is a socketed 45 W dual core Llano mobile APU at 2.2 GHz to 2.6 GHz with Radeon HD 6480G graphics.

Launched
December 2011
Cores and threads
2 and 2
Default TDP
45 W
Codename
Llano
Segment
Mobile (socketed)
Family
AMD A4
Clocks
2.2 / 2.6 GHz

AMD A4-3330MX specifications

Cores2
Threads2
Core architectureStars (K10) cores on 32 nm
Clocks2.2 GHz base, up to 2.6 GHz Turbo Core
Cache2 MB L2 (1 MB per core)
Default TDP45 W
Manufacturing process32 nm
Memory supportDDR3-1600, two channels
PCI ExpressPCIe 2.0 from the APU (lane layout varies by board design)
Integrated graphicsAMD Radeon HD 6480G (444 MHz)
MultiplierLocked
PackageSocket FS1 (PGA, 722 contacts)

Motherboard and chipset compatibility

AMD A4-3330MX needs a motherboard with a Socket FS1 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.

SeriesChipsetsSupport
Hudson mobileA60M, A70MWorks out of the box

Board makers publish a CPU support list for every model. Check it for your exact board before buying. Chipset details for Socket FS1.

Socket FS1 at a glance

TyperPGA, 722 contacts
Package sizen/a
IntroducedJune 2011
MemoryDDR3-1333 and 1600, two channels
Cooler mounting holesBoard specific (laptop heatsink)

Read the full Socket FS1 socket guide

What the A4-3330MX is

AMD A4-3330MX is a dual core Llano mobile APU that AMD released in December 2011 for socketed performance laptops. It uses the Stars K10 core design on a 32 nm process, running at 2.2 GHz base with Turbo Core to 2.6 GHz. The cache is 2 MB of L2 with 1 MB per core. Power is 45 W. Graphics come from AMD Radeon HD 6480G with 240 shaders at a fixed 444 MHz. AMD documents this 2.2 GHz variant under one listing, with a separate 2.3 GHz listing variant noted in the sources.

The MX class pairs the highest A4 base clock with DDR3-1600 support at 45 W. Sustained threaded work runs faster than 35 W M parts, while turbo matches the late M refresh. Threads equal cores at 2.

Performance laptops pair it with DDR3-1600 SODIMMs and stronger cooling than 35 W bodies. The 45 W envelope needs an MX rated heatsink. The LGA, PGA and BGA: CPU package types explained guide explains why this socketed PGA part can be serviced.

Socket and motherboard compatibility

The A4-3330MX fits Socket FS1 with 722 contacts in pin grid form. Hudson A60M and A70M boards carry it where the BIOS lists the exact A4-3330MX string with 45 W tables. A 35 W only heatsink cannot hold MX loads.

Memory choice follows the MX class with DDR3-1600 SODIMMs. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide explains why the maker list decides.

Memory, PCIe and cooling

Memory support is DDR3-1600, two channels. Two matched 1600 MT/s SODIMMs give the rated bandwidth. DDR3-1333 also runs where fitted.

PCI Express is revision 2.0 from the APU for discrete graphics options, Wi-Fi and storage.

Cooling is board specific for 45 W with larger pipes than 35 W bodies.

Upgrade paths

On Socket FS1 the A4-3330MX already tops the A4 MX range, so faster moves mean A6 or A8 parts where the heatsink and BIOS allow. Memory and storage carry over. A 35 W comparison is AMD A4-3320M on the same socket.

A platform move means a new laptop on a newer BGA package.

Frequently asked questions

What socket does the AMD A4-3330MX use?

It uses Socket FS1 in pin grid form with 722 contacts.

Are there two A4-3330MX variants?

AMD lists a 2.2 GHz variant used here and a separate 2.3 GHz listing variant. Match the board string before ordering.

What memory does the A4-3330MX use?

DDR3-1600, two channels.

Can the A4-3330MX be replaced?

Yes, in socketed laptops with a 45 W heatsink and BIOS support.

Sources and verification

  1. AMD A4-3330MX Notebook APU (AMD archived product page)
  2. AMD A4-3330MX Notebook Processor (Notebookcheck)
  3. AMD A4-3330MX variant listing (AMD archived product page)

Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .